Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL. Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct a new class members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2023 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
BO JACKSON
There may have never been an athlete with the skills possessed by Bo Jackson, a two sport superstar who was eventually sidelined from a devastating on the field injury. But the mark left by Jackson on both the gridiron and the diamond will spawn tales for decades forth.
I am no Auburn Tiger fan, but I did appreciate his place in college football while on the plains. With Jackson, the Tigers ended a long losing streak to Alabama in the Iron Bowl, and he sent shockwaves around the country in winning the 1985 Heisman Trophy.
In the college game, I saw Jackson play live four times. The first opportunity came when he was a freshman, and he scored the only touchdown as Nebraska routed the Tigers on the plains 41-7. I was at the 1982 Tangerine Bowl in Orlando to see Jackson and Auburn beat Doug Flutie and Boston College 33-26. Three Florida State losses I also witnessed with Jackson and Tigers, a 42-41 barn burner in Tallahassee, a close 27-24 Tiger comeback and a 59-27 late Tiger blowout, both on the plains. Jackson killed my Seminoles in that 1985 game, with a couple of long touchdown runs.
Of course, Bo knows the NFL as well, as Jackson played for the LA Raiders from 1987 until his injury in 1990. I am certainly not a member of Raider Nation, but boy was he gifted and fun to watch. I watched live on Monday Night along with much of the nation as he taught a lesson to Seattle and former OU standout linebacker Brian Bosworth.
Where I really became a personal fan of Bo was during his Major League Baseball career, which began as a member of my beloved Kansas City Royals. Bo got offended by the Tampa Bay Buccaneer leadership, so rather than being the first pick in the NFL Draft and being a Buc, he went full MLB. What fun!
At the time, Kansas City spent spring training in Baseball City, just 30 minutes (at the time) south of Orlando. We went to 75% of the games down there, and it was just a thrill to interact with Bo and all the Royals, inclusive of inaugural Hall of BAHL entrant George Brett. At Baseball City, they had a replica crown out in center field. Bo blasted one over that one time, and we really have no idea where that smash landed.
Jackson starred with the Royals from 1986 to 1990, but the football injury played a role in his departure from Kansas City. After his time with the Royals, Jackson did continue his MLB career, most notably with the Chicago White Sox.
Bo Jackson was perhaps the best athlete I have ever seen, especially in person. He is a superstar, and I am thrilled to welcome Bo to The Hall of BAHL.
IRVING FRYAR
As a young, Nebraska Football was what is all about, and in 1983, the Huskers were set to roll with the Scoring Explosion, a group of skill position players seemingly not rival in the nation. There was superstar option quarterback Turner Gill, Heisman Trophy running back Mike Rozier, and All America wide receiver Irving Fryar. With a defense that was not dominant, the Huskers fell short of winning the National Championship against Miami in a humid night in Miami’s Orange Bowl (I was there). But Fryar, know as “The Fly Man,” was sensational as a Husker, earning consensus All America honors as a senior, but he did have a meaningful drop on a perfectly throw touchdown pass in that game that has been cemented for the wrong reasons in Husker lore. I always loved his game, and he was a personable dude as well so I always appreciated The Fly Man. The display he put on at Minnesota was one for ages! As Pete Najarian!
Fryar went on to be the first player selected in the NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. Fryar was a strong player, but he had several off the field missteps, which were well documented in the media. Fryar not only flashed on the field, but there was that smile! Well, he seemingly wore out his welcome with the Patriots but then he moved to the Miami Dolphins where we was excellent. He then went to the Eagles for some other extremely productive season before closing his career out with the Washington Redskins.
Fryar made 5 Pro Bowls, and ranks high in NFL history in several categories, including touchdowns and total yards. Fryar was the first player to record a touchdown catch in 17 consecutive seasons and is the oldest player to have four touchdown catches in a game.
Fryar’s problems with the law have sadly continued after his playing days, including serving a prison sentence after being convicted, along with his mother, for mortgage fraud. This has been a lifetime issue, and had Fryar stayed out of trouble quite likely would be wearing a gold jacket. It seems under it all Fryar is a good dude, but he can’t seem to elude trouble.
Eluding defenders is something he excelled at on the gridiron, and I am always cheering him on. Wish he would turn up in Lincoln from time to time, where he could find support to hit it straight and narrow with his extended Husker family. The troubles are not optimal, but I have always been a fan I welcome Fryar to The Hall of BAHL.
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL. Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct a new class members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2021 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
SALVADOR PEREZ
Kansas City Royal catcher Salvador Perez is a fan favorite for Royals fans, considered one of the best overall catchers in the league. Salvy, as he is affectionally known, is very valuable to the success of the Royals.
Salvy is exceptional on the defensive side, winning multiple Gold Gloves, but his bat has quite a pop as well, with Perez know for some big time timely hits, including a huge one in Kansas City's 2015 World Series Championship.
Perez is the quarterback of the ball club, handling the pitchers and defensive alignments throughout the season. As such, he is a team leader in the clubhouse. But more importantly, Salvy has a deep love for the game, and his positive attitude and determination is infectious, bringing out the best in all those who are blessed to play with him.
Salvy awards players of the game the Salvy Splash, where the Gatorade jug of water is dumped on the head of the player of the game. It is great fun and is a favorite among Royals fans. Having attended many Kansas City Royal games both in Kaufman Stadium and on the road in Atlanta and Tampa Bay, we have had many occasions to interact with Salvy, and every single time he has greeted us with his wonderful smile.
We are so pleased to welcome Kansas City Royal catcher Salvador Perez to The Hall of BAHL!
TONY STEWART
I became an instant fan of Tony Stewart when he came over to NASCAR from IndyCar to pilot one of Joe Gibbs Pontiacs. In fact, Stewart would step into the Cups series in a Gibbs Pontiac with sponsorship from The Home Depot, one of my larger stock holdings and a company I frequently support.
Stewart was very competitive in the series right out of the gate, and went on to win three Cup Series Championships. Stewart left Gibbs to form his own team, teaming with Gene Hass. Stewart finished driving career with 49 career wins as a driver, finding great success on the superspeedways and road courses. His first win was a Richmond International Raceway, a track he scored many wins on. We used to say that that out on the track, if Tony hit you, you needed hitting.
These days, Stewart Hass remains quite successful, continuing to stack up wins with a trio of Ford teams, lead by former Cup Series Champion Kevin Harvick.
Stewart has racing in his blood. He has formed a new racing series, similar to the old IROC series, which will have drivers from all series of racing competing. This series will no doubt very interesting, and great fun.
We will continue to watch and cheer the contributions to racing by one its greatest ambassadors, Tony Stewart. We welcome Tony Stewart to the 2021 class of The Hall of BAHL!
DALVIN COOK
Former Florida State running back Dalvin Cook was one the best at his position to ever play for the Seminoles, and he was simply incredible to watch. He got loose with the best of them, and when he did, he most often found paydirt!
A product of Miami Central, Cook not only excited with his blazing speed, but he broke tackles with the best of them. For Seminole fans, we were particularly pleased that Cook had some of his best performances against our hated rivals.
Always displaying a fun demeanor, Cook was a great teammate for the team, counted upon often to lead FSU to victory. Cook left Florida State with 4464 yards rushing and 48 total touchdowns.
We saw Dalvin around town on occasion, and he was always friendly placing his big smile on display.
In the 2017 NFL Draft, Cook was selected in the second round by the Minnesota Vikings. What a steal! Although he has had some injury issues, Cook has exceled with the Vikings and is considered without question one of the best running backs in the NFL, and a favorite of fantasy football players nationwide.
It is exciting to welcome former Florida State great Dalvin Cook to The Hall of BAHL!
Rush Limbaugh, the Doctor of Democracy, passed away today the age of 70 due to lung cancer.
Rush began his career working with the Kansas City Royals, and remained close friends with Royal Hall of Famer George Brett. As a life long Royals whose favorite all time player is George Brett, I felt I had a sort of kinship with the both of them.
I started listening to Rush in 1989 and have always been proud to be a dittohead. Rush saved talk radio, and paved the way for many people who are stalwarts in the industry today, inclusive of Mark Levin, Sean Hannity and Glenn Beck. We all owe a debt gratitude to Rush for that alone.
The left despised Rush, considering him the most dangerous man in America. As far as identifying their hideous objectives, they had good reason to be alarmed. Nobody understood the political landscape like El Rushbo. He had a keen ability to ascertain the political objectives and avenues of pursuit of those trying to transform our beloved United States of America.
Rush provided political theatre which was entertaining and astonishingly accurate. He treated his audience with respect and kindness, and made us all welcome to be a party to it all.
President Donald Trump recently awarded Rush Limbaugh the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It was an honor which floored Limbaugh, but it was very well deserved.
Rush Limbaugh cannot be replaced. I will miss him dearly. RIP Rush!
Rush employed many guest hosts over the years, but perhaps the favorite of the legion of Limbaugh followers was Mark Steyn, whose employed with elegance outstanding knowledge and wit. Steyn is fantastic.
Today, on Steynonline, Mark Steyn penned a post about Rush that says it all. Please read the piece, linked below, which closes in the best possible way: Talent Returned to God!
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL. Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct a new class members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2020 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
KEVIN SEITZER
With George Brett moving toward the end of his hall of fame playing career,the Kansas City Royals needed to interject some power in the lineup, finding it with rookie Kevin Seitzer in 1996. Seitzer immediately started slapping the ball around, taking a stab at the Royals record books on more than few occasions.
He was a fun player to watch, and I wish his tenure with the Royals lasted longer. Seitzer headed over to the Milwaukee Brewers in 1996. Later, after his playing career ended, Kevin entered the coaching ranks, later even spending on the Royals staff.
I really enjoyed watching Kevin Seitzer play the game, with his strong hitting abilities and his contagious love for the game. I am pleased to welcome Kevin Seitzer to The Hall of BAHL.
LARRY CSONKA
In my childhood, the newly formed Miami Dolphins were great to have as your favorite team while becoming acquainted with the National Football League. I was not alone here in Central Florida. In the early seventies, under the guidance of Don Shula, the Dolphins became a powerful force, going to three consecutive Super Bowls, winning two of them, including the incredible "perfect season" in 1972. There were many heroes on those teams, but one that stands out was Larry Csonka. A bruiser from Syracuse, the Dolphins had a strong and powerful inside runner from his fullback spot in Csonka, who teamed with Mercury Morris in the backfield.
Csonka represented the toughness the Dolphin teams were built on in those days, and was a player the team could always count on. Csonka is one of only three players to have their Dolphin jersey retired, and is a member of the National Football League Hall of Fame.
An avid hunter and fisher who in post football years has spent the majority of his time in Alaska, Larry Csonka has remained very tight to those tight knit teams of the Dolphin glory years, always attending events and celebrations. He is always among the first to celebrate each season when the last NFL team falls from the ranks of the unbeaten, and has always remained close with Coach Shula.
Miami Dolphin legend and NFL Hall of Famer Larry Csonka is a powerful addition to the Hall of BAHL.
NEIL BONNETT
The Hall of BAHL welcomes NASCAR legend Neil Bonnett to the 2020 class.
Bonnett was a charter member of the famed Alabama Gang of NASCAR racers from the Hueytown area. He was a really good guy, a friend to all within the garage area, and he was one the good ole boys I always pulled for. Late in his career, Bonnett piloted a Pontiac Grand Prix, and I loved the fleet of wide tracks.
After a very serious crash at Darlington in 1990, Bonnett stopped racing and joined the broadcast networks broadcasting the races. This is where many racing fans got to know Bonnett better, enjoying his folksy personality and very strong racing acumen. Bonnett was a great ambassador of the sport in the booth.
Bonnett was best friends with Dale Earnhardt, and he iched to get back behind the wheel. With the help of Earnhardt and Richard Childress, Bonnett got an opportunity to run at Talladega in a Childress prepared Chevrolet Lumina in 1993. With NASCAR nation watching, Bonnett was involved in a horrendous crash down the front stretch of the White Knuckle Highway, with Bonnett's Mom and Pop's Chevrolet going airborne landing in the catch fence. Bonnett was fine, and rejoined the booth to call the rest of the race.
James Finch offered a ride for the 1994 season in his Country Time Lemonade Chevrolet, a really good looking ride. In a most unfortunate practice season event leading up to the 1994 Daytona 500, a mechanical failure got Bonnett loose and he crashed head on in wall up in turn 4, ending his life. This was a very sobering event and it was a difficult Speedweeks to be damn sure.
Neil Bonnett was a fan favorite, and he is greatly missed, and now a member of the Hall of BAHL.
LAVONTE DAVID
Lavonte David transferred into Nebraska after a community college stint after a stellar high school career at powerhouse State Champion Miami Northwestern, and impact on the Cornhuskers was immediate. During his two years with the Big Red, David was a tackling machine, a complete disaster for any offenses attacking the Husker Blackshirts. No matter the opponent, David was a terror, causing fumbles and picking off passes to go with his team leading tackling numbers. "David started all 27 games he played in at Nebraska (2010–11), recording 285 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, two interceptions, 12 passes defensed, three forced fumbles and two fumbles recovered. His 285 career tackles rank fourth in school history, and most by a two-year player" reports Huskers.com
Picking up right where he left off at Nebraska, David is a sideline to sideline player, capable of making big time plays all over the field. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected David in the second round of the NFL Draft in 2012, and given my movement to the Bucs becoming my favorite NFL team in recent years, this suited me just fine. David has been an All Pro player for Tampa Bay, a leader on the team from his linebacker position. Defensively, Lavonte David is one of my favorite all time Huskers and is without question my favorite current Buccaneer.
Lavonte has also been a wonderful addition to the Tampa community, often volunteering on behalf of health and fitness for children issues, which is close to his heart. A great guy and fabulous football player. we welcome former Blackshirt Lavonte David to the Hall of BAHL.
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys.
In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL.
Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2017 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
TREV ALBERTS
Trev Alberts came to Nebraska from Cedar Rapids, IA to play football for the Cornhuskers.
Alberts became an All-American at defensive end for the 'Huskers, winning the Butkus Award for the nation's top linebacker in 1993.
In perhaps his top performance for the Big Red, Alberts, playing with an injured elbow, had three sacks of Florida State Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Charlie Ward in the Orange Bowl, a game I attended (somewhat in turmoil given my heartfelt allegiance to both Universities).
Alberts went on to be the sixth pick in the NFL Draft, selected by the Indianapolis Colts. Although he played three season, that arm injury lingered and Alberts never quite materialized to be the NFL player many hope he would become.
No worries; Alberts was a consensus Academic All American, earning an NCAA Top Six Award.
After football, Alberts turned up working at CNN/SI as a college football analyst. In 2002, ESPN hired Alberts and he became part of top analyst team. Alberts often argued with co-host Mark May, and while the fans enjoyed it, it became too heavy for ESPN and Alberts was let go in 2005.
Now, Trev Alberts is Athletic Director at The University of Nebraska-Omaha. The Mavericks athletic program has been making great strides under the leadership of Alberts, who just may find himself back in Lincoln performing that duty at a late date.
While Florida State was in New Orleans waiting to play Virginia Tech for the National Championship in New Orleans, we ran into Alberts, who was in town covering the game for CNN. Before being called away late in the game to do a Sugar Bowl preview, Alberts joined our group to watch Nebraska bury Tennessee in the Fiesta Bowl.
We really enjoyed that experience, loved Albert as a Husker and welcome him as a 2017 inductee to the Hall of BAHL
MIKE MARTIN
Ole #11
That is how Mike Martin, who has been manager of FSU Baseball since 1978, likes to be referred to as.
Martin took over for Dick Howser, who left to manage the New York Yankees and later managed the Kansas City Royals to a World Series championship in 1985.
Florida State under Martin has had tremendous success, and leading the Seminoles to 38 consecutive regional tournament appearances and 16 trips to the College World Series, winning at least 40 games for the 38th consecutive seasons. That is some resume.
Only a championship could top of Martin's career, which includes playing in the College World Series for the Seminoles. Yes, Martin has always been a Seminole.
Beyond his coaching attributes, Martin is a complete class act. He has warmed the hearts of fans talking baseball across the nation at Seminole Booster events, and I have had many an occasion to visit with him, as pictured above some years back.
Eleven is among the most beloved figures in Florida State history, nothing would be nicer to than for the Seminoles to win the College World Series in 2017. They are one of eight going to Omaha!
Florida State baseball's Mike Martin joins the Hall of BAHL
ERIC HOSMER
When we arrived at Tropicana Field in St. Pete to watch our Kansas City Royals take on the home Tampa Bay Rays, we had no idea what the day would hold.
While watching the Royals take batting practice, just off the dugout, rising Royal Eric Hosmer tossed a ball to my daughter, and life has not been quite the same. From that moment, our family have been huge Eric Hosmer fans.
Whether we have watched at The K in Kansas City or over at the Trop, we have always cheered on theReal305, who happens to be a fellow Floridian. He has not disappointed either, always smiling and waving to us, and knocking some home runs along the way.
Hosmer has become one of the premier players in the league, earning All Star honors and winning a truck last year of the MVP of the game. Hosmer played an integral role helping Kansas City to back to back World Series, with the Royals winning the 2015 title. Forever Royal!
Consideration was given to wait another year to induct Eric, as he is a free agent and may not re-sign with Kansas City. The Royals desperately want to keep him, as he is not only an All Star player and a team leader, but has gained favor in the greater Kansas City community for his charitable activities.
Hosmer was Raised Royal, and I certainly hope the Royals can find a way to keep hin Kansas City.
However, we are great fans of Eric will support him in all future endeavors as he has given us plenty of Royal Roar and smiles along the way. Here's hoping one of our all time favorites, Eric Hosmer, stays Forever Royal as he is welcomed as a 2017 inductee into the Hall of BAHL
JEFF GORDON
Jeff Gordon, The Wonder Boy, was a California kid who entered NASCAR just as Richard Petty retired and took the sport by storm, becoming a four time champion driving for the famed Rick Hendrick stable of Chevrolet's.
Jeff Gordon's Hendrick Racing Chevy SS
Gordon, who was hated by the fans of rival Dale Earnhardt, earned the respect of the garage area and his fellow drivers, by not only winning races, but by carrying himself in sportsmanship and humility.
If fact, him and Earnhardt became quite good friends, even engaging in some avenues of business together.
Jeff Gordon is third all time in wins, with 93, trailing only David Pearson and the King, Richard Petty.
While Gordon was not my favorite out there, it always seemed he was my second favorite. My wife and I got the experience of a lifetime watching live in person Gordon winning the 2005 Daytona 500.
Gordon retired, only to be called back to substitute for an injured Dale Earnhardt, Jr. in 2016. But Gordon seems officially out now, having settled in to a new career, doing an outstanding job as an analyst joining Mike Joy and famed drive Darrell Waltrip in the booth for NASCAR coverage for FOX Sports.
Jeff Gordon becomes the fourth NASCAR drive to become a member of the Hall of BAHL.
KAREEM ABDUL-JABBAR
As a young boy, when I first became aware of NBA basketball, I became a fan of the Milwaukee Bucks. Maybe it was the red and green uniforms, but more likely, it was the players on the team. There was the famed Big O, Oscar Robertson, and Bobby Dandridge along with two UCLA guys, guard Lucious Allen and center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Almost immediately after I became a fan, Allen and Jabbar went to join the Los Angeles Lakers. I went along with them.
Abdul-Jabbar, formerly Lew Alcindor, was a towering figure, both figuratively and literally, within the game. Kareem, known as The Captain for the Lakers, had developed his own unstoppable shot; the sky hook. Jabbar could probably make a living in the league to this day with that shot!
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will without question always be one of the greatest basketball players of all time, a mellow individual who was a fierce competitor who embraced discipline and commitment.
Abdul-Jabbar is also a noted author and an outspoken individual off the court, who more often than not seems to approach topics with thoughtfulness and respect. I am rarely in agreement with Kareem on the issues of the day, but I do respect him as an individual and appreciate the greatness he exhibited on the hardwood.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the Captain, is now a member of the Hall of BAHL.
On Saturday night, Nebraska punter Sam Foltz passed away in a car accident. Former Michigan State punter Mike Sadler was driving, and also passed away. The two, and others, were attending a kicking camp for youngsters in Wisconsin.
Foltz was a larger than life guy. He was a walkon player from Central Nebraska who became an All B1G player who had an NFL future. If he wanted.
Foltz seemed to have a passion for helping others, a man who thought about the big picture. Seizing productivity for himself, and others, out of each day.
His teammates and coached loved him, as did the communities he shined his light on. He was a 'Husker Nation here, Royal Forever having celebrated his Royals recent World Series Championship.
Fotlz will be missed, but his impact on those who knew, or knew of him, will live on forever. #GBR #KCR
In the face of a majority of the Missouri football team threatening to boycott a neutral site game in Kansas City's Arrowhead stadium on Saturday night vs. BYU, demands were met with the resignation of University of Missouri president Tim Wolfe.
A favorite tactic of the left, this amounts to extortion. Mizzou, just a few years removed from being championed as a bastion of diversity having an openly gay player in LB Michael Sam, is now too racist to bear, claim the top protesters.
Please read the incidents involved, which we deem very weak as they currently are reported to substantiate the level of civil rights strife the protesters claim inflict the university.
Among the list of demands, as reported by the Independent Sentinel, was that President Wolfe must write an handwritten apology “acknowledging his white male privilege” and “recognize that systems of oppression exist.” They also want more social justice centers, more black staff to be hired by quota, more money for black causes, and the demands of the 1969 Black Collegians met. The Black Collegians are leftist advocates. With the group referencing the admission of white privilege, we can confirm their relationship to other similar movements seeking the same results utilizing differing avenues of approach. White privilege has been code language for the social justice movement, which includes Black Lives Matter. This highly financed group is part of the agenda created to discredit churches, companies, agencies and organizations while creating divisions between classes through race, gender and economic status. BLM is really no different than Occupy Wall Street, just using another mechanism.
In addition, although this has not become present as of yet, admissions by churches, companies, agencies and organizations and/or leaders of such agencies and institutions open a door to significant legal ramifications, not just to those centrally involved, but to all citizens and taxpayers.
“Black Lives Matter hates the American system of government, i.e., the Constitution and capitalism,” says Rev. Jesse Lee Patterson, founder and president of the civil-rights organization BOND. Patterson says the movement associates the U.S. with “whiteness,” and, therefore, despises the very government that appears to be endorsing it.
This appears an attack on the institution, an effort to advance a social justice agenda under the limited if not false premise of racism. A very concerning precedent has now been formed, and similar instances seem likely to follow.
Quotations among those supporting the group at Mizzou claim the nation does not understand the racism and level of tension dealt with on a daily basis in the state of Missouri.
Funny, the nation did not witness any such activity in Kansas City last week, where 800k citizens, of all races, gender, creed, hairstyle, musical interests and favorite superhero came together to celebrate the Kansas City Royals World Series win.
Is the struggle real in Missouri, or is this just another orchestrated event to further divide our nation while making effort to advance progressive tenants of social justice?
Our answer is evident with what just happened in Kansas City.
On Saturday night, we will certainly be cheering for BYU! Go Cougs!
The Kansas City Royals defeated the New York Mets at Citi Field in Flushing last night 7-2, rallying once again from a deficit to win the 2015 World Series.
It was the Royals first World Series title since 1985, and their second in the franchise history.
It was a great season for the Royals, and each series win by the Royals on the way to winning the World Series exemplified what the organization represents. C Salvador Perez was named MVP of the series, well deserved by most accounts, although other choices held merit.
As Dirk Chatelain of the Omaha World Herald so eloquently noted, "The Royals rode nobody. It’s as close to a TEAM championship as you will ever see. Ever. Kansas City mastered old-school baseball, putting the ball in play, running the bases with reckless abandon, forcing opposing defenses to perform".
All season, it was #TakeTheCrown! Consider it #Crowned.
Rarely does chickenpox hit the clubhouse of a Major League Baseball team, but it hit the Kansas City Royals in Tampa this weekend. Just so happens, we were visiting with the team pregame on Sunday.
It is amazing in this day and age something like this can happen, particularly among a professional sports team with unlimited medical staff, but outfielder Alex Rios and relief pitcher Kelvin Herrera were sent home from Tampa over the weekend. The team is monitoring the situation closely.
It is worth noting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who outside of an outstanding performance by linebacker Lavonte David, looked horrible Saturday night at Tampa Stadium in a blowout preseason loss to the Cleveland Browns, had significant cases of MRSA in their locker room three or four years ago. In fact, MRSA may have been a factor in ending the career of offensive lineman Carl Nicks, who contracted the disease.
With illegal, yes, illegal, immigration on the boiler plate of the political arena these days, the potential impact on our citizenry of these illegal immigrants carrying disease as they come across the border without any checkpoint is enormous.
A slow creep of disease throughout our nation seems imminent.
One would think our elected leaders would find the protection of the American citizens paramount, but with the Obama administration, more concern is placed upon the dismantling of America power, the gaining of a political advantage from expanding their voting base and transferring the wealth from those that earned it through entitlement program to those who have not.
Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.
Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL.
Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.
Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.
The inductees for the 2015 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:
DICK HOWSER It is not often in sports when some of your favorite people get to play integral roles for your favorite college and professional teams, but for me, Dick Howser was such a man. Howser was the first All America baseball player at Florida State University, twice earning the honor as a shortstop. Howser was signed by the Kansas City Athletics, and earned rookie of the year honors.
After his playing career ended, he joined the New York Yankees as third base coach, even managing a game during the 1978 season. Howser came home to Florida State to become manager in 1979, but was hired away to become the Yankees skipper in 1981. He was then hired to manage the Kansas City Royals, who he led to many division titles which culminated in wining the 1985 World Series.
While managing the 1986 All Star Game for the American League, players and announcers noticed Howser was not himself. He stepped aside for treatment for what was diagnosed as a brain tumor. Howser tried to return to the Royals in 1987, but it was not to be due to his condition.
'No matter how you prepare for this day, when it actually happens, it's a shock,'' said George Brett, the Royals' third baseman. ''You just hate to see him go. He's going to be missed.''
In 1988, during a preseason game where the Kansas City Royals came to Tallahassee to play the Seminoles, a game I was fortunate to attend and have a commemorative bat from, FSU names the on campus baseball stadium in honor of Howser as Dick Howser Stadium was born. As reported by Seminoles.com, "As part of the stadium dedication, Kansas City all-stars George Brett and Bo Jackson helped unveil a new $150,000 matrix scoreboard and a bronze bust of Howser.
Hoswer has had his number retired by both the Florida State Seminoles and the Kansas City Royals, with bronze statues at both baseball parks. I have visited both of these personally, and they are beautiful tributes to an individual who is among the most beloved people to grace those places.
It is an honor to induct forever Royal Dick Howser, an unconquered Seminole, to the Hall of BAHL.
WARRICK DUNN
Back in Baton Rouge, LA, Florida State commit Warrick Dunn was dealt a tragic blow as his mother, Betty Smothers, a Baton Rouge police officer, was shot to death in the line of duty. This tragic event, which made Warrick head of his household, could have derailed many a young man, but Smothers did not raise such a man. Dunn held steady on his commitment to Florida State, where he became one of the most gifted players ever to wear the garnet and gold.
Dunn possessed blazing speed and was member of the FSU track team, but it was his cat quickness with great vision that he was noted for. Dunn was stellar in evading would be tacklers and was brilliant catching the ball out of the backfield. More important, although soft spoken, Dunn was a team leader, a young man of great character who was a role model for his teammates and fans.
Dunn helped Florida State win the schools first National Championship in 1993, and in integral play in that season was a tough win at Florida, where Dunn took a swing pass from Charlie Ward and raced for a score late to capture the win.
Dunn closed out his FSU career as the school leader in career rushing yards, most rushing yards in a season and became the only Seminole to rush for over 1000 in three consecutive seasons. Dunn's number 28 jersey has appropriately been retired by Florida State.
Dunn played in the NFL for over a decade, beginning and ending with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a few years as an Atlanta Falcon in between. Dunn was the offensive rookie of the year with Tampa Bay, and was a three time Pro Bowl selection. Beyond the field, Dunn won several citizenship awards, including winning the prestigious Walter Peyton Man of The Year Award.
In honor of his mother, Dunn began a program to build houses through his Home for the Holidays program as part of his foundation Warrick Dunn Charities which helps single parent families attain home ownership through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. "Warrick Dunn Charities has awarded millions in furnishings, food and other donations to single-parent families and children across the nation to combat poverty, hunger and ensure families have comfortable surroundings and basic necessities to improve their quality of life."
Warrick Dunn was a great football player, but perhaps he is even a greater individual. Seminole Nation is very proud to have Warrick as one of our best players and representatives of our beloved University. Throughout his life, Dunn has exhibited the principles and values that honor the core beliefs of the Seminoles, perhaps a live illustration of the unconquered.
It is a thrill to have FSU and Tampa Bay standout Warrick Dunn among those in the Hall of BAHL.
JIMBO FISHER
For the Florida State faithful, it was most difficult to part ways with legendary football coach Bobby Bowden, who built not only the Florida State football program, but played a significant role in the growth of the university itself. But for most, there was only one choice to follow Bowden's path, and that was Jimbo Fisher.
Fisher had a strong relationship with Terry Bowden, who Fisher played quarterback for and later coached with, ending up at Auburn together as part of the Tigers undefeated 1993 season. Fisher would continue to polish his craft before becoming offensive coordinator under Bobby Bowden at FSU. Fisher developed a keen ability to groom the quarterback position, but learned a great deal about team structure and leadership during a stint at LSU, where Fisher was offensive coordinator when the Bayou Tigers won the national title.
Fisher started strong at FSU, and while there were some growing pains, which included a couple of head scratching losses, a culture of winning was being built by Fisher. If you would ever speak to Jimbo about what he calls the organization, you would promptly recognize that Fisher has complete control and confidence in his mission in developing young men in the pursuit of excellence. Nothing is left to chance in the development of the organization, and young men are held accountable to the team and themselves. The team is a family, and this is not by coincidence.
When Fisher was introduced as head coach at FSU, he said "Empowered, confident athletes are winners. My goal is to get the structure, the staff and the support resources in place to facilitate a winning plan and get players into the structure and start effecting change. Now." The grade in accomplishing that plan is A+.
Fisher quickly set the tone, and after losing four games in each of his first four seasons, the Seminole jumped up a few levels and won the 2013 National Championship with a victory of Auburn. In addition, quarterback Jameis Winston won the Heisman Trophy. Before losing in the College Football Playoff to Oregon, the Seminoles has ran off a school record 29 game winning streak.
Fisher has returned Florida State to the national elite, with stellar recruiting as young men want to come and be a part of the working to achieve greatness. Jimbo is a favorite of the FSU faithful, and he can remain parked in Tallahassee as long as he wishes.
Florida State head football coach Jimbo Fisher is welcomed into the Hall of BAHL.
ERIC CROUCH Eric Crouch was the third Nebraska player to win the Heisman Trophy winning the coveted award in 2001 after a brilliant senior campaign which culminated in the 'Huskers losing to the Miami Hurricanes in The Orange Bowl.
The Omaha Millard North product compiled a 35-7 record as starting quarterback for Nebraska, and left left Nebraska in possession of 32 school records. At the time, Crouch was one of just three quarterbacks in NCAA history rush for 3000 yards and pass for 4000 yards in a career.
Crouch broke top ranked Oklahoma's back on a reverse 41 yard touchdown catch, pummeled a would be Iowa tackler on the way to paydirt and delivered a blow to Hall of Famer Ed Reed in a losing effort in The Orange Bowl. But, Crouch really dazzled the faithful with a breathtaking touchdown run at Missouri, an integral part of the highlight reel that helps secure a Heisman.
Crouch remains in Nebraska and close to the program, doing work for FOX Sports and the Big Ten Network. I had a chance to meet him in New York City on Heisman weekend one time, while he did not have the look of an elite athlete, lest there be no doubt he is one of the best players in the storied Nebraska football history.
Crouch vs. Notre Dame
Crouch vs. OU/Getty image
BAHL Revere is pleased to induct Nebraska's Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Eric Crouch into the BAHL Hall of Fame.
CHRIS WEINKE
Chris Weinke came to Florida State an unusual way. After originally signing a letter of intent to play football at Florida State out of after Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, MN, Weinke ended up spending six seasons in the minor leagues with the Toronto Blue Jays. Coach Bobby Bowden promised his scholarship would be honored if he decided to come, Weinke retired from the Blue Jays and arrived at FSU at the age of 25.
Weinke was the starting quarterback for Florida State in 1998-99. After leading the Seminoles to a 9-1 record in 1998, Weinke was forced to sit due to a neck injury suffered late in the year. Healthy, Weinke returned to lead the Seminoles to an undefeated season culminating with FSU winning it's second National Title with a 46-29 victory over Virginia Tech in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans.
As president of the Seminole Club of Greater Orlando in 1999, I was able to attend this game, a game in which Weinke had a stellar performance. Beyond winning the National Title and Heisman Trophy, Weinke left FSU holding records for the most passing yards and touchdowns in a career in compiling a 32-3 record as the starting quarterback.
Weinke had numerous plays which could compile a lengthy highlight reel, perhaps Weinke is best known for this backbreaking play against Clemson, deemed "The Play Fake".
Weinke played several years in the NFL most notably with the Carolina Panthers. Since his retirement, Weinke has dabbled in many arenas and is now quarterbacks coach of the St. Louis Rams after being head coach at IMG Academy in Florida.
Florida State remains special to Chris Weinke, and he is no stranger to the program, attending many events and games while cheering on our beloved Seminoles. Weinke is a very special player in the history of FSU football, and among the hearts of Seminole Nation.
Chris Weinke, Heisman Trophy winning quarterback of the Florida State Seminoles, is welcomed as part of the 2015 Hall of BAHL class.
BAHL is a REALTOR, Real Estate Investor and Residential Real Estate Appraiser in Orlando. He holds a BS degree in Economics from Florida State University.
